17 AUGUST 2023 • TECHNICAL

Segregation of waste refers to the process of separating different types of waste materials at the source to facilitate their proper disposal, recycling, or treatment. Proper waste segregation is essential for effective waste management and environmental protection. By sorting waste at the point of generation, it becomes easier to handle, recycle, and dispose of different types of waste in an eco-friendly and sustainable manner.

Here are some common categories for waste segregation:

  1. Biodegradable Waste: This includes organic waste such as kitchen scraps, vegetable and fruit peels, food leftovers, garden waste, etc.
  2. Non-Biodegradable Waste: This category comprises non-organic waste that cannot be broken down naturally. Examples include plastics, metals, glass, and synthetic materials.
  3. Hazardous Waste: Hazardous waste includes materials that can pose a threat to human health or the environment, such as batteries, chemicals, pesticides, electronic waste (e-waste), etc.
  4. Recyclable Waste: This category includes materials that can be recycled and used to create new products. It includes paper, cardboard, glass, certain types of plastics, and metals.
  5. E-waste: Electronic waste comprises discarded electronic devices like computers, smartphones, printers, and other electronic appliances.
Proper segregation of waste offers several benefits:
  1. Reduced Landfill Burden: By separating recyclable and biodegradable waste, the amount of waste sent to landfills reduces significantly, leading to less environmental pollution.
  2. Resource Conservation: Recycling segregates materials like paper, glass, and metals, allowing them to be reused, reducing the demand for new raw materials and conserving natural resources.
  3. Waste-to-Energy Opportunities: Some non-recyclable waste can be converted into energy through modern waste-to-energy technologies, providing an alternative energy source.
  4. Prevention of Environmental Pollution: Proper waste segregation prevents hazardous materials from contaminating the environment and water bodies, reducing environmental pollution.
  5. Promotion of Circular Economy: By segregating waste, materials can be efficiently recycled and reused in a circular economy model, minimizing waste generation and promoting sustainability.